Viniou Reviews
The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella from Masi is a red wine with remarkable depth and character, emblematic of the Veneto region in Italy. Crafted primarily from indigenous Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes, this wine is renowned for its rich and concentrated flavours. The 2016 vintage benefitted from a balanced growing season, producing wines with good structure and vibrant aromas. The terroir of Valpolicella, characterised by its calcareous and clay soils, contributes to the wine's complexity and long-lasting finish. The winemaking process includes the traditional appassimento technique, where grapes are partially dried before fermentation, enhancing the wine's intensity and alcohol content, typical of Amarone.
The Veneto region is one of Italy's most prolific wine areas, boasting a history of viticulture that dates back to Roman times. The region enjoys a diverse climate, with the Alps to the north providing protection from cold winds, while the warm breezes from Lake Garda moderate temperatures, resulting in balanced conditions perfect for vine cultivation. The diverse soils and ideal climate converge to produce wines that truly reflect the region's unique characteristics.
When it comes to food pairings, Amarone della Valpolicella is a versatile wine that can complement a range of dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with rich, hearty fare such as braised beef, lamb shanks, or aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano. For a regional pairing, consider serving it alongside Risotto all’Amarone, a dish where the wine is used to enhance the creamy rice, mirroring and amplifying the flavours in the glass.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Amarone at a temperature of 16-18°C. This allows the wine's full bouquet to open up, revealing the intricate aromas of ripe cherry, plum, and hints of chocolate and spice. Enjoy the wine now for its vibrant fruit notes, or allow it to age further to develop its complex tertiary characteristics.
